Soviet Union: Political Role and Influence of the Army in the Soviet Union

A file of correspondence and reports concerning the Soviet armed forces. The documents cover articles and discussions on the political influence and role of the Soviet military, and the influence of the Soviet communist party on the armed forces. Other documents in the file include personality notes on General Andrei Grechko, a marshal of the Soviet Union; Grechko's visit to Czechoslovakia during the "Prague Spring"; and the influence of military leaders in the formation of Soviet party policy. The file also covers an All-Army Conference of Young Officers; the establishment of a new Soviet Central Asian Military District; military appointments in Sino-Soviet frontier districts; and Western interest in the Soviet armed forces, including conferences and NATO meetings. Further commentary covers the Soviets' decision not to hold military parades during May Day celebrations in future; events to mark the anniversary of Victory Day in 1945; and a reception for the graduates of military academies.